Canadian Firm Tapped to Develop Waterfront E-Zone

Buffalo, NY – Erie County Executive Joel Giambra announced plans Tuesday for a family entertainment complex to be built on outer harbor land.

A Toronto-based company, the Syata Group, has been designated to build the $100 million project called E-zone.

This is the latest proposal in an on-going waterfront development plan that is scheduled to make big strides this year. Giambra said this will not affect the timetable for other projects, including the development of a state park.

"All of this compliments each other as opposed to detracting or diluting from the others. This is all part of a bigger development scheme," Giambra said "And I just hope we can do more."

The complex would include an indoor outdoor water park, snow board park, theme restaurants and shops, and other attractions.

Jeffery Goodman, the executive vice-president of Syata, said this will be big for Buffalo.

"In terms of Erie County and Buffalo it will raise the local and regional profile," Goodman said. "I'm sure you can appreciate the fact that it'll be a tool to attract conventions, increase Metro ridership, and lengthen tourist stays once they come to this area."

The project is expected to create one thousand jobs.

The developers say construction could start in spring 2004 and open its doors the following year.